Families and Older Generations

Families and older generations played a key part in both West African culture and in Confucianism. One of the key teachings of Confucianism was 'Respect family and older generations'. Confucianism, being based on moral values and ethics, thought that respect for our elders was very important and had a big role in life. As the Han dynasty lost power around 200 A.D., Confucianism began to lose its influence.

In West African culture, families and older generations were a big part of traditions too. Family relationships were important in West Africa. The connection of a common ancestor created clans from kinships. Each of these clans had their own history that was passed down by storytellers. West Africans believed that their ancestors were protectors and could help them 'connect' with 'the creator of the universe.' The storytellers, or griots, were a major part of these rituals.